Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed Information

If you are looking for an athletic and hardy, working dog who can accompany you on a hunt, look no further as the Bluetick Coonhound is the dog breed that you are looking for. If you are planning to home one, here's some information about this dog breed for you to know about.

Shruti Bhat

My Roots

The Bluetick Coonhound is a cross between the Grand Bleu de Gascogne and English Foxhound, with its origin being Louisiana. They were recognized for the first time by the United Kennel Club in 1946.

A lot can be said about Bluetick Coonhound dogs. They love being with children and surrounding by people, though they were initially meant for hunting purposes. They are very loving and affectionate, and like being talked to. They are least bit demanding (except when you take them for a run). They make excellent watch dogs and will ward off any strangers, while alerting everyone around them. However, they possess very little protective instincts and will seldom bite.

Dogs, especially this breed, have expressive eyes and body language. They love being spoken to and wish to communicate with people. Following is some more information on this breed.

An Overview of the Bluetick Coonhound

Physical Characteristics

Name

Bluetick Coonhound

Origin

USA

Size Type

Medium

Breed Group

Hound

Lifespan

10 - 12 years

Height

Male: 22 - 27''Female: 21 - 25''

Weight

Male: 55 - 80 lb.Female: 45 - 63 lb.

History

Bluetick Coonhounds were brought down to America during colonization. They were later rebred in Tennessee with the help of selective breeds, viz., Curs, English Coonhounds, Foxhounds, and French Hounds.

Due to their mixed parentage, they found it difficult to be declared as a separate breed; however, they got their separate recognition in 1946. However, the AKC included Bluetick as a member only in 2009.

Health

Bluetick Coonhounds are prone to hip dysplasia, lysosomal storage disease, cataracts, Krabbe disease, and may develop genetic health problems. If they are not adequately exercised, they may even bloat.

Like other droopy-eared dogs, this breed too is inclined to developing ear infections; therefore, the ears need to be checked and cleaned on a weekly basis.

Hunting

Blueticks, originally bred as a hunting dog, were widely used for hunting raccoons. They are highly energetic and anxious, and require long walks or runs. They are, therefore, unfit for apartments and require fenced yards. Since hunting is in their blood, they have a tendency to follow a scent for hours or go off on a hunt, but possess no sense of direction or road sense, thus requiring a fenced yard to keep them from wandering away.

Do not forget that these dogs are paradoxical, and they will put up with a great deal of pain. Therefore, it is best you know some basic doggie care first aid.

Temperament

Blueticks are family dogs and grow attached to humans. They tend to bawl rather than the usual bark, which may be ideal for home protection, but not for your neighbors.

They are not too easy to train, and are a goofy breed. But they work well to praise and treats. While training, remember that patience and persistence are key factors required to train any hound, especially a Bluetick Coonhound.

Grooming

Their short and glossy fur coat requires occasional brushing and bathing. Check for ticks and fleas daily.

Color and Marking

While choosing a Bluetick Coonhound, remember to closely observe its color and markings. This dog possesses a dark blue, thickly mottled body. The spots vary in shape and size, but have black spots on the ears, back, and sides. Their head and ears are mostly black. The dog can have tan markings on its eyes, cheeks, chest, below the tail, and red ticking on its feet and lower legs. Keep in mind that blue should be more than white in the body coat.

Recognized By

American Canine Registry, American Kennel Club, Australian National Kennel Council, America's Pet Registry, Inc., Canadian Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America, and National Kennel Club.

What Pet Owners Should Know

Choosing

Observe the Bluetick Coonhound puppy's physical health and attitude towards other dogs and people. Choose from a litter whose parents have a pleasant personality, along with the required certificates.

Training

On bringing the puppy home, start training the puppy immediately. No matter how young the pup is, even around the age of eight weeks, it is capable of learning. Remember that you are working with a headstrong breed, who will require time and patience. You may later choose a puppy kindergarten class. Playing smell-tracking games will keep their minds and bodies active.

Vaccinating

Know that your pup will require vaccines for rabies, DHLPP (distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza), and extras that are recommended by the veterinarian.

Feeding

Bluetick Coonhound pups require 4 meals in a 24-hour period when they are between 8 and 12 weeks of age, 3 meals when they are 3 to 6 months old, and about 2 meals by the time they are 6 months to 1 year of age.

Rescue Bluetick Coonhound

If going to the pet store or a breeder is not your way to go, you could always think of rescuing one. There are many rescue centers in and around your town or city that you could visit to bring home an ever-so-loving pooch.

Like any dog breed, Bluetick Coonhounds are a very sensitive breed. They get attached to humans instantly. So, while training, do not to punish your puppy; avoid smacking it at any cost. To have a good dog, you need to be a good trainer. Choose a method that will keep the training interesting for you and your puppy.